Daniel’s Story

At 24, Daniel has overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges. Born with developmental disabilities, behavioral health issues, and addicted to drugs, Daniel entered foster care as an infant. He was adopted as a toddler by a loving mother who tragically passed away just a few years later. Daniel’s aunt cared for him until his needs eventually became too difficult for her to manage on her own. That’s when he was introduced to SCO.

When he was 15, Daniel came to SCO’s Extraordinary Needs group home, where specially-trained staff provide care, guidance, and a home-like experience for adolescents with developmental disabilities. At first, Daniel was reserved and had trouble communicating. But as time went on, Daniel gained confidence and found his voice – literally – while attending singing and performance workshops. Daniel

Since then, his progress has been nothing short of remarkable. Daniel is now able to talk and has become quite the social butterfly. He loves to bowl, watch Jeopardy, and engage in community activities. A budding diplomat (and Mets fan), he even attended a Yankees game with his housemates, although he refused to cheer.

Daniel is open and honest and has become a model resident. He’s a meticulous dresser who always puts his best foot forward. “That’s how we do it at SCO,” he says. Often referred to as the mayor of the house, Daniel keeps track of everything and everyone, advocating for himself and his peers.

As Daniel transitions to adulthood, SCO remains by his side with the supports he needs for a bright future. Last year, Daniel moved into a new SCO Individual Residential Alternative (IRA), a residence designed specifically for adults with challenges like his. Here Daniel continues to receive services, supports, and encouragement to live a full and independent life. New routines, new friends, and new adventures lay in store for Daniel, who is navigating his new surroundings like a pro.

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Community Habilitation

Community Habilitation provides one-to-one training to people with intellectual/developmental disabilities to develop or enhance the skills needed to live more independently in their homes or in the community.

The individual is paired with a Community Habilitation Provider who guides him/her through a variety of in-home and community activities to enhance their daily living skills as they work towards achieving their goals.

Community Habilitation supports can include:

  • adaptive skill development
  • community inclusion and relationship building
  • development of social skills
  • travel training
  • money management
  • leisure skills
  • appropriate behavior development to help the individual access their community

To learn more, please contact: ddelarosa@sco.org

Interested in becoming a Community Habilitation Provider? Complete the form below.

Community Habilitation Provider

Please complete this form if you are interested in providing Community Habilitation Services to an adult with developmental disabilities.

Sex:
Address

Services

  • Developmental Disability Supports
  • Independent Living Skills

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Daniel’s Story

Finding his voice - literally - at SCO's residence for adults with developmental disabilities

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